Canine or Feline

Fish, hamsters, lizards, gerbils, snakes, cats, and dogs are all considered house pets. While some prefer reptiles, others prefer mammals. However, cats and dogs remain the most popular house pets. They are both cute and cuddly and offer companionship with their owner(s). Many say dogs are a man’s best friend and are the ultimate pet to own. Others believe cats are the better pets to have. Felines are superior to canines because they are more independent and can fend for themselves.

First off, cats get a bad rap because they are said to have an attitude and are more self-reliant than their counterparts. They will go off by themselves, lounge, sleep, and gather their own food; they do not need to be entertained or given as much attention as dogs do. Dogs want to play fetch, go on walks, and be doted on constantly. They want to be in the spotlight when cats just want to be left alone. In addition, dogs desire immediate attention when their owners get home while cats will saunter their way into their owners’ presence when they feel like it.

Secondly, the care of a cat while gone or on vacation is a lot easier compared to a dog. In most situations, owners can leave enough food and water out for the cats while they are away so their fluff balls don’t go hungry. Additionally, they can be sure the cat litter is fresh and clean before they leave so they don’t come home to a disastrous mess when they return. Cat owners may need someone to check on the cats once–maybe twice–while they are out of town, but that’s about it. On the other hand, dogs have to be fed multiple times daily, and they have to be taken outside to do their business. If they aren’t, the house will be a total mess. Some dog owners even decide to board their fur babies while they are gone which can be extremely costly. Cats are free to roam and chill while home alone whereas dogs need constant care and attention.

Lastly, if teaching younger children responsibility by caring for a pet, cats are the better choice because they require less demands than dogs. As mentioned previously, cat food and water can be left out all day with the litter box only needing to be changed every few days. Cats will play on their own and come and go as they please. Oppositely, dogs need to be fed at least twice a day–if not three times–and they must be taken outside to relieve themselves and to get exercise. Dogs just need to be tended to more often than cats which requires more of the child’s time and attention.

Both felines and canines are wonderful pets, but when it comes to picking the superior one, cats reign at the top! They are more independent and self-reliant. They are smaller and take pride in themselves and their owners. Felines rule; canines drool…literally.

Question
The author begins each body paragraph with a signal word. What purpose do these words serve for the reader?
Responses
A They are an easy way for the author to start each paragraph.They are an easy way for the author to start each paragraph.
B They indicate which reason is being given for why cats are better than dogs.They indicate which reason is being given for why cats are better than dogs.
C They guide the reader quickly through the entire passage.They guide the reader quickly through the entire passage.
D They are used as reference points for when the reader may get lost or confused.

1 answer

The correct response is B: They indicate which reason is being given for why cats are better than dogs.

The signal words at the beginning of each body paragraph help to clearly delineate the specific points the author is making in support of their argument that cats are superior pets compared to dogs.